Tag Archives: SCADA

Manufacturing operations of all shapes, sizes, and types are using the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) to achieve substantial competitive advantages, and improve profits.

The Industrial Internet, also sometimes referred to as Industry 4.0, connects and links concepts such as big data, analytical tools and decision making, and connected networks with traditional industrial equipment. It is about collecting and applying data to make better decisions, run facilities more efficiently, and in the end to improve profits. The IIoT is in the process of revolutionizing manufacturing.

Some ways that the IIoT has impacted traditional industrial manufacturers, food processors and those in agricultural processing is by improving the collection of system data that allows better record keeping, inspection tracking, and analysis. These help with the productivity of certain areas such as predictive maintenance, safety, and supply chain. The IIoT advantages can be especially beneficial in those areas.

The IIoT can help your manufacturing operation in many different ways. Three of the main areas it can be beneficial the most in are 1) Preventative maintenance, by being able to better predict when your equipment will need servicing. 2) Safety, by providing reports and real-time updates to track events that can prevent accidents. Finally, 3) it helps with your supply chain by giving you visibility on your products before, during, and after shipments by the use of sensors, scales, or even encoders and tachometers.

The promises of the IIoT and the changes that Industry 4.0 are bringing are no longer “coming attractions”. They are for companies that embrace the potential of the IIoT. There are substantial competitive advantages, increases in profit, and new opportunities abound. This is a concept that deserves your attention.

If you have any questions don’t hesitate to contact your IIoT experts at Thompson Automation. We have 30+ years of experience and are always willing to help in any way we can to improve your business. Contact us today at:

Is your Control Systems Integrator a business partner or do you think of them more as a car repair mechanic? Someone you only see when there is a problem and you never are quite certain if they are telling you a line or shooting you straight. Do you ever have that feeling the mechanic isn’t doing something to your car to make you come back in a week or two? That trust with your system integrator is extremely important as you consider what might happen if the engine of your production systems breaks down.

Ask yourself five critical questions?

Does your control systems integrator customize their work to meet your needs?

Are your SCADA and IT systems growing as you grow?

When was the last time your provider brought you new and innovative ideas?

Are they following through when they say they will get the job done in a timely manner?

Do you trust them?

A trusting relationship with your systems integrator is very important in getting the best service possible. If you can’t answer these five questions in the affirmative, then it might be time to look for a new control systems partner. Your systems integrator should have three qualities for you to trust them. The first is for them to be ready and willing to adjust to your needs. The second thing is for them to have a good communication system in place to work around what you want. Lastly, the third one is to simply be more involved with you. If your integrator isn’t doing these things, it is time to change.

Thompson Automation has been meeting the needs of customers for more than 30 years. Thompson is not about “products” and fitting you into the mold of what the “system” will do rather we spend our time fitting the best solution around your needs. We craft custom solutions to meet our customers’ specific needs. We can assure you that Thompson is the way to go.

If you need reliable and dependable experts to help with any of your controls and automation needs then don’t hesitate to contact us. Our information is: